Mt Sugoroku

Mt Sugoroku (Japanese: 双六岳) is one of the deep‑heart mountains of the North Alps, a peak that feels remote, self‑contained, and quietly magnificent. Reaching it requires commitment. The approach from Shin‑Hotaka begins with a long forest road that winds deep into the valley. From there, the climb up Koike Shindō begins. It's a huge, sustained ascent through forest and rocky slopes that seems to go on forever, with views of the surrounding peaks and the river far below encouraging you upwards.

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Eventually you break onto the ridge, where the character of the mountain changes. The walk toward Sugoroku Hut is beautiful. The hut sits in a quiet basin about an hour below the summit, perfectly placed for those who want to enjoy the mountain without rushing. I often stay here in autumn, when the colours burn through the valleys and the air feels crisp and clear. Raichō rock ptarmigans are common in the area, moving calmly among the stones and dwarf pine.

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The final ascent to Mt. Sugoroku is one of its highlights. Just below the peak lies the famous “runway,” a long, flat stretch of ridge that looks almost man‑made in its straightness. It’s a unique feature, a natural terrace that feels like a landing strip in the sky. Above it, the summit rises in a final push of rock and gravel, opening into wide views of the North Alps: Yarigatake’s (槍ヶ岳) spear, the long spine toward Kumonodaira (雲ノ平). Mt Kasa (笠ヶ岳) to the south and Mt Kurobegoro (黒部五郎岳) to the west.

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Many people pass through Sugoroku on their way north toward Kumonodaira, Washiba (鷲羽岳) or the great traverses beyond. But I think it’s worthy of a visit in its own right. The combination of long approach, varied terrain, quiet hut, and distinctive summit makes it one of my favourite mountains in the North Alps. It’s a place I often return to again and again, especially in autumn when the foliage is at its best.

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(All information here is based on personal observations and experiences. Check official sources before planning or starting any hikes.)